Laurent Koscielny: Arsenal defender could return at Watford

Centre-back Koscielny has not played since last month due to a hamstring injury, while midfielders Arteta and Flamini last appeared in the win at Leicester City.

However all three have returned to training and could play a part when the Gunners travel to Vicarage Road.

“Koscielny has a slight chance to be back on Saturday. He has a definite test on Thursday,” Wenger revealed.

“Arteta and Flamini are back in full training. We need to see how they are and how confident they are, but we can’t rule it out.”

Star forward Alexis Sanchez had to be substituted with a groin injury in the 3-0 victory over Manchester United, but scored three times during the international break in Chile’s wins over Brazil and Peru, meaning he has now hit nine goals in five matches for club and country.

“From the internationals we only have positive news. We are still waiting for Joel Campbell, Alexis Sanchez and David Ospina to return, but they all texted back to say they are OK, so we just have to see if they were objective in their assessment,” Wenger added.

Should Bournemouth be able to cause an upset at Manchester City, then three points for Arsenal will see the North London outfit move top of the Premier League.

How important is Koscielny to the Gunners’ title hopes? Discuss their prospects on the new Your Say Arsenal forum.